Cassie Ely

Cassie brings a proven history of strategic leadership in innovation, climate science, and environmental policy to her role as Director of Program Management and Strategic Initiatives. Her expertise spans program development, stakeholder engagement, and translating technical capabilities into practical, impactful applications that drive systemic change across environmental, aerospace, and technology sectors.

Since 2022, Cassie has focused on architecting complex multi-stakeholder initiatives between federal agencies, philanthropies, and the private sector. Her recent efforts include leading strategic private sector partnership development for NASA Headquarters and the Western Water Applications Office to expand the use of earth observation technology into practical, impact-oriented applications. She previously served in various roles at Environmental Defense Fund, leading cross-cutting, matrixed programs using innovation to grow knowledge and spur action on greenhouse gas emissions and air quality. Her most recent role was as Director of MethaneSAT, where she developed the program from its initial seed investments to a groundbreaking, globally recognized aerospace effort.

Cassie received her Master's in Energy and Environmental Policy from the University of Delaware and her Bachelor's in Zoology and Anthropology from the University of Wisconsin. She received her Project Management Professional Certification in 2021.

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